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Tennessee football at South Carolina: 10 keys to the game for Vols and Gamecocks

By Caleb Calhoun

South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer saw his team fall behind early on Saturday at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn.Kns Tennessee South Carolina Football Bp
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer saw his team fall behind early on Saturday at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn.Kns Tennessee South Carolina Football Bp /
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Nov 20, 2021; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks running back Juju McDowell (21) celebrates following the South Carolina Gamecocks 21-17 win over the Auburn Tigers at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2021; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks running back Juju McDowell (21) celebrates following the South Carolina Gamecocks 21-17 win over the Auburn Tigers at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Can South Carolina avoid negative yardage plays

Here’s another issue for South Carolina, particularly in the run. The Gamecocks have rushed for 110 yards in five of their six wins and haven’t lost when rushing for at least 100 yards. However, key to them hitting that mark is making sure they avoid so many sacks and tackles for losses, both of which have been issues.

South Carolina, on the year, has allowed 71 tackles for a loss, which puts them down at No. 109. They are No. 112 in fewest tackles for a loss per game at just over seven. In terms of sacks allowed, they are No. 79, as they have surrendered 23, tying them at No. 79 with just under two and a half sacks allowed per game as well.

Now, Tennessee football isn’t elite at racking up sacks or tackles for a loss. The Vols are No. 59 in sacks with 23 and No. 57 in sacks per game at just under two and a half. They are No. 39 in tackles for a loss, though, which is pretty decent, with 64 and No. 37 in tackles for a loss per game at just under six and a half.

What stands out, though, is the Vols’ rush defense. They are No. 11 nationally, allowing just over 104 yards a game, and they are No. 13 in yards allowed per attempt at just over three. If South Carolina is to hit that 100-yard mark against this team, avoiding those negative plays is crucial.

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